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What is Degree Finder?
It's your interactive way to discover degrees and majors at the University of Idaho. With a new look and additional functionality, we've added even more features to help you find the major for you. Use the search, browse, and A-Z sections below to get started exploring based on your interests, desired careers, goals, and more. And when you're ready, click the Request Info button, give us a bit of information, and get even more about that field - directly in your inbox.

Pre-Physician Assistant Focus

First steps toward a career as a physician assistant.

The pre-physician assistant (PA) focus is an advising program to help students select courses and become well prepared for application to physician assistant school.

The steps toward your career as a physician assistant begin by taking the required pre-PA courses, completing your undergraduate degree, and gaining required clinical experience. Course work will include chemistry, biology, anatomy, physiology, organic chemistry, biochemistry, microbiology and statistics. Common pre-PA majors include biology, chemistry, biochemistry, microbiology, exercise science, and nutrition. You will also need to seek out volunteer opportunities to shadow PAs and to work with patients in a variety of clinical settings.

Completing these steps are prerequisites for applying to PA school for two or more additional years of specialized training.